1) Open up the game folder (by default "C:\GOG Games\Sensible World of Soccer 96-97")
2) Open the file dosbox_SWOS_single.conf in Notepad.
3) Add the line "install.exe" (without quotes) between "cls" and "english.exe"
4) Open the file dosbox_SWOS.conf in Notepad.
5) Change the line "timed=true" to "timed=false"
6) Save the modified config files and close them.
7) Start the game using the usual link. Don't use the French, German or Italian links in the start menu - you will have the opportunity to change your language).
8) Go to "configure", "control", "joystick and keyboard" to activate. Also change your language from this menu if you're so inclined. You will also need to calibrate your joypad, and DOSBox is a bit sluggish doing this with the default config.
9) Save the settings and exit.
10) Write "english" or "ENGLISH" to start
11) The game will then start automatically with joystick support.